HE only joined the club on the eve of the season, but Sydney FC defender Nikola Petkovic was last rewarded for a campaign of power and consistency by being named the Sky Blues’ player of the year on Tuesday night.

The 27-year-old played every minute of the season and has already been re-signed for next year, with the award — voted for by the club’s coaches — recognition of the level of performance that was a bright spot in Sydney’s underwhelming season.

News_Image_File: Petkovic has been Sydney FC’s most consistent player this season.

There was a double award for Iraqi midfielder Ali Abbas, who put his claims of suffering racial abuse in the Sydney derby behind him to be named player of the year by both his teammates and also by the club’s members.

The chairman’s award went to youth team coach Steve Corica, under whose leadership the side won the national youth league, while Alessandro Del Piero won the Golden Boot for being top scorer again.

For Petkovic, the award was reward for switching from Europe in late September, and some solace from a campaign ended by Melbourne Victory in last Friday’s elimination final.

News_Rich_Media: Gui Finkler rescued Melbourne Victory once again with his late goal ending Sydney FC's season.

“I’m honoured to have been chosen for this award,” Petkovic said. “It means a lot to be voted by the coaches as the Player of the Year and I would like to thank them for giving me the opportunity to play for this big club.

“It has been a good year for me and I’m looking forward to hopefully winning the Championship next year and qualifying for the Asian Champions League.”

Sydney coach Frank Farina described Petkovic as “a model professional”. “Nikola has had a very good season,” Farina said. “He has been consistent and has shown a lot of commitment to the squad, he is a model professional.

“Nikola has truly earned this award and it has been a pleasure to coach him this season.”

News_Image_File: Ali Abbas was voted player of the year by his teammates.